SANTA CRUZ

Freeline Design Surfboards marks 45 years Sunday

Freeline Design Surfboards is celebrating its 45th year in Santa Cruz 2-6 p.m. Sunday at the surf shop. The Mel family and its staff will host an anniversary party at 821 41st Ave. with food, soft drinks, giveaways, games and a dance band.

John and Kim Mel opened their first surf shop in 1969 on 41st Avenue when it was a quiet two-lane road with views of cow pastures leading to the beaches at Pleasure Point. Their son, Peter Mel, became a big wave surfer, Mavericks champion, and surfboard shaper. His son John, 14, is learning the family craft.

For 20 years, the shop has been at its current location, at 41st and Portola, only short distance from the well-known surf break The Hook. For information, call 831-476-2950.